Birds of Tennessee (with pictures)
Tennessee is a wonderful place for bird lovers! With its diverse landscapes like the Great Smoky Mountains and the wetlands of Reelfoot Lake, the state offers a rich variety of bird species. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birdwatcher, there are plenty of opportunities to see the various species of tennessee birds.
Common Birds of Tennessee
Tennessee is home to a variety of different species, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most commonly seen, alot of which are backyard birds of tennessee that can be seen year round.
American Robin (Turdus migratorius)
The American Robin is a familiar sight in Tennessee’s backyards, known for its vibrant orange-red breast contrasting against a grayish-black head and back. These medium-sized songbirds also sport a white lower belly and undertail, making them easily distinguishable. Whether you’re scanning the lawn or perching near a bird feeder, the robin’s cheerful appearance is a delightful addition to any yard. They are vocal birds, known for their melodious and complex songs that often announce the arrival of spring. Their calls range from a series of melodious whistles to a characteristic “cheerily, cheer up, cheer up, cheerily, cheer up” sound that is both iconic and pleasantly familiar.
When it comes to feeder preferences, American Robins are not typically regulars at seed feeders. However, they are attracted to certain types of food offerings. They have a particular fondness for mealworms, suet, and fruit, making bird feeders that include these options somewhat more enticing for them. Their diet mainly consists of insects and berries, delighting in earthworms, caterpillars, and a variety of fruits. Providing a bird bath or a water source can also draw these birds to your garden, adding to the vibrant ecosystem in your backyard.
Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)
Blue Jays are hard to miss with their striking blue and white plumage, complemented by a crest on the top of their head and a black necklace-like band across their white belly. This beautiful bird also exhibit a white throat and a mix of black and white patterns on their wings and tail, providing a stunning visual for any birdwatcher or wildlife photographer. One of their defining characteristics is their iridescent blue feathers, which are actually brown underneath—the blue appearance is due to light scattering, much like the sky’s color. This intricate play of colors makes them a favorite subject for photography and observation. A resident of the state, Blue Jays are a common sight in West Tennessee.
When it comes to bird feeders, Blue Jays show a particular preference for platform feeders stocked with sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, making them frequent visitors to backyards designed with their needs in mind. Their vocalizations are just as varied as their diets, ranging from loud, jay-jay calls to softer, more musical sounds. Occasionally, they even mimic the calls of hawks, adding an intriguing element to their already complex behaviors. Though they are seed eaters their diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of insects, nuts, and seeds, though they won’t shy away from small vertebrates and fruits. This omnivorous diet helps them thrive in various habitats, from urban areas to deep forests.
Red-Bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus)
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is a striking bird, easily recognizable by birdwatchers and photographers alike. These medium-sized woodpeckers showcase a vibrant red cap that extends from their beak to the nape of their neck in males, while females boast a red patch from the nape alone. Their namesake red belly is more of a faint wash or blush, often hard to see. They have striking black and white barred wings, which contrast beautifully with their creamy underparts. A notable feature is their long, chisel-like bill, perfect for drilling into wood in search of food.
In terms of sounds, the Red-bellied Woodpecker is quite vocal, known for its rolling “churr” calls and various drumming patterns on trees that resonate in the woods. Their diet is diverse, consisting mainly of insects like beetles, ants, and caterpillars, which they extract from the bark of trees. Additionally, they enjoy a variety of fruits, nuts, and seeds, making them frequent visitors to backyard feeders stocked with suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts (National Society).
Carolina Chickadee (Poecile carolinensis)
The Carolina Chickadee is a small bird, averaging four to five inches in length, with a distinctive black cap and bib. These features are complemented by white cheeks and grey wings and back, creating a sharp yet elegant contrast. The underparts are softer and whiter, giving the bird a balanced appearance that makes it a charming sight in backyards and forests alike.
The call of the Carolina Chickadee is as distinctive as its appearance, often singing a clear, four-note whistle that sounds like “fee-bee-fee-bay”. These birds are frequent visitors to backyard feeders and have a marked preference for sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet. In the wild, their diet also includes insects, spiders, and berries, making them versatile foragers (All About Birds).
Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus)
The Carolina Wren is a delightful and energetic bird, instantly recognizable by its rich, rusty-brown upperparts and prominent white eyebrow stripe that adds to its charming demeanor. These small birds, measuring around 4.7-5.5 inches in length, also feature a buffy orange belly, creating a beautiful contrast that makes them stand out in your backyard. Often found flitting about with their tails held upright, Carolina Wrens are a sight to behold for birdwatchers and photographers alike. Their agility and curious nature make them excellent subjects for capturing in natural light or through telescopic lenses.
When it comes to feeding preferences, Carolina Wrens are quite attracted to suet and mealworms, both of which provide the high-energy nutrition they need. Their diet is primarily insectivorous, consisting largely of insects and spiders, making them beneficial pest controllers. You can attract these charming birds to your feeders by providing a variety of suet cakes, mealworms, and occasionally small seeds or berries. Known for their loud and melodious songs, Carolina Wrens fill the air with whistles and trills that vary in tone and complexity, often described as “tea-kettle, tea-kettle, tea-kettle” or “cheery, cheery, cheery”. Their vocalizations not only declare their presence but also add a lyrical quality to your backyard, enhancing the overall birdwatching experience.
Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos)
The Northern Mockingbird, Tennessee’s state bird, boasts a slender body with long tail feathers and a striking gray plumage accented by white wing bars. One of its most distinctive features lies in its wing and tail patterns: prominent white patches on the wings and white outer tail feathers. These markings are not only visually captivating but also make the bird easily identifiable during flight, especially when its long tail—accentuated by white edges—is fanned out.
Known for its vocal prowess, the Northern Mockingbird is an adept mimic. It can imitate the calls and songs of various bird species, crafting an impressively varied repertoire of sounds. When it comes to their dietary preferences, these birds are quite versatile. They enjoy a diet that mainly consists of insects and berries, with occasional forays into small fruits. Their flexible diet makes them frequent visitors to backyard feeders, particularly those offering suet, mealworms, or fruit pieces, thriving in both rural and urban settings.
Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis)
The Northern Cardinal are resident birds of Tennessee and a favorite among birdwatchers and wildlife photographers, easily recognizable by its vibrant color and distinctive crest. The male boasts a striking red plumage that makes it stand out, while female Cardinals have more muted tones of light brown with subtle reddish accents in her crest, wings, and tail. This sexual dimorphism allows you to differentiate between the sexes easily in your backyard or through the lens. Known as a common feeder bird, Northern Cardinals frequently visit bird feeders, especially those stocked with sunflower seeds, which they consider a delicacy. Their strong, cone-shaped bills are well-suited for cracking open such seeds, making your backyard an attractive destination for these beautiful birds. A resident of the state, Northern Cardinals are a common sight in West Tennessee.
The sounds emitted by Northern Cardinals are equally fascinating. Their repertoire includes a variety of whistles and songs. Males commonly produce a series of clear, whistled phrases, while females are known for their softer, melodious chirps. You might hear their distinct “cheer, cheer, cheer” call ringing through your garden, adding an acoustic charm to their visual allure. While sunflower seeds are a significant part of their diet at feeders, their preferred food outside of feeders are cracked corn, berries, and insects such as beetles and caterpillars, which provide essential proteins.
American Goldfinches (Spinus tristis)
American Goldfinches are small vibrant birds, males sporting bright yellow plumage with black wings and caps during breeding season. Females and winter males are more subdued, with olive or brownish tones replacing the characteristic yellow. Both sexes have notched tails and wings adorned with white markings, contributing to their delicate beauty. These distinctive features make them easy to spot among other backyard birds. Watching them flit between branches and feeders is a delightful experience for any bird enthusiast.
Their song is a series of twitters and warbles, often resembling the phrase “per-chick-o-ree”. Goldfinches are fond of feeders stocked with sunflower and nyjer (thistle) seeds. In nature, these birds primarily consume seeds from plants like asters, thistles, and sunflowers, aligning with their predominantly granivorous diet. Observing their feeding habits can be both entertaining and educational, as they often hang upside down to access seeds. (All About Birds)
Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)
Standing between 3.5 to 4.5 feet tall, the Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) is an impressive sight for any birdwatcher or wildlife photographer. This stately bird features a long, sinuous neck and slender legs, optimized for wading through the shallow waters of Georgia’s diverse aquatic habitats. Its distinguishing blue-gray plumage is accented by a wide black stripe extending from the eye to the back of the head, where it forms a fetching plume. The Heron’s wingspan, which can reach up to 6.6 feet, provides a majestic silhouette against both dawn and dusk skies (National Audubon Society, n.d.). The bird’s sharp, yellowish bill is not only striking but also serves as an efficient tool for fishing. Known for their deep, resonant calls, these herons typically produce a guttural croaking sound that often echoes through wetlands and coastal regions, resembling a croaking “fraaahnk.” Observers might catch a rare, softer, almost barking sound when the herons communicate at their nesting sites.
Migratory Birds in Tennessee
Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris)
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird are small birds that migrates to Tennessee during the spring and summer months in their breeding season. This hummingbird is a jewel of the bird world, with males displaying a brilliant red throat patch, iridescent green back, and pale underparts. Females lack the red throat but share the green back, presenting a more muted elegance. These tiny birds, only about three to three and a half inches long, are marvels of flight agility.
Their rapid, high-pitched chirps often accompany their energetic flitting from flower to flower. Attracting them to your yard is best achieved with feeders filled with a mixture of four parts water to one part sugar. Naturally, they feed on nectar, complemented by small insects and spiders, vital for protein intake. (All About Birds).
Sandhill Crane (Grus canadensis)
Sandhill Cranes are large, elegant birds characterized by their remarkable size and beauty, which migrate through the state of Tennessee particularly during the fall and spring seasons. They are widely recognized for their distinctive and resonant calls, as well as their impressive wingspans that can reach up to seven feet. During their long migratory journey these birds frequently make stops at wetlands and open fields, where they take the opportunity to rest and feed, replenishing their energy for the next leg of their travels.
Swainson’s Thrush (Catharus ustulatus)
Swainson’s Thrushes are medium-sized songbirds that migrate through Tennessee as they journey from their breeding grounds in South America to their wintering habitats in North America. These birds are particularly renowned for their melodious, flute-like songs that resonate beautifully in the early morning and late evening hours. Swainson’s Thrushes exhibit a strong preference for wooded areas, where they can often be spotted flitting among the trees and underbrush.
Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula)
The Baltimore Oriole is a strikingly colorful bird that migrates to Tennessee in the spring, showcasing its vibrant hues during this seasonal journey. They are easily recognizable by their bright orange and black plumage, which stands out against the backdrop of their natural habitat. Orioles are often found in open woodlands, where they thrive in the dappled sunlight, and are known for their intricate, hanging nests that they skillfully weave from various materials.
Indigo Buntings (Passerina cyanea)
The Indigo Bunting, a small seed-eating bird in the cardinal family, is a striking sight in Tennessee’s backyards. Males boast vibrant blue plumage that shines brightest during the breeding season, while females and immature birds exhibit more subdued brown feathers with hints of blue only noticeable upon close inspection. These birds are notable not only for their visuals but also their melodious songs. The male Indigo Bunting’s song is a series of sharp, clear, and high-pitched notes, often described as a cheerful warble that can last several seconds and covers a variety of frequencies. This song is crucial in attracting mates and defending territory.
The dietary preferences of the Indigo Bunting are diverse, predominantly consisting of seeds, insects, and berries. During the breeding season, they favor a diet high in protein, feasting on insects like caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers. In contrast, their winter diet shifts primarily to seeds and small fruits, enabling them to adapt to the seasonal availability of food sources. At backyard feeders, they will eagerly consume sunflower seeds, millet, and thistle, making them a delightful and frequent visitor for those who provide these offerings.
Birds of Prey of Tennessee
Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
The Bald Eagle is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and recognizable birds of prey found in Tennessee. This magnificent bird, distinguished by its striking white head and tail feathers, is frequently observed soaring gracefully near expansive bodies of water, where it skillfully hunts for fish and other aquatic prey. The Bald Eagle has experienced a remarkable resurgence in its population numbers, largely due to dedicated conservation efforts and initiatives aimed at protecting its natural habitat.
Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
The Peregrine Falcon holds the title of the fastest bird in the world, with the remarkable ability to reach astonishing speeds of up to 200 miles per hour during its hunting stoop. This impressive bird of prey is frequently observed in a variety of environments, including bustling urban areas, steep cliffs, and expansive open spaces. Its extraordinary speed not only enhances its hunting prowess but also establishes it as a formidable predator in the avian world.
Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
The Red-tailed Hawk is widely recognized as one of the most prevalent hawk species inhabiting the state of Tennessee. This bird can be easily identified by its distinctive reddish-brown tail, which sets it apart from other raptors. Observers often spot it soaring gracefully in the expansive sky or perched prominently on telephone poles, where it surveys the ground below. Its diet primarily consists of small mammals, such as rodents, and various species of birds, making it an effective predator in its ecosystem.
Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)
The Great Horned Owl is a notably large and powerful species of owl, characterized by its distinctive ear tufts that give it a unique appearance. This remarkable nocturnal bird of prey is widely recognized for its deep, resonant hooting call, which can be heard echoing through the night. It inhabits a diverse array of environments, ranging from dense forests to bustling urban areas, showcasing its adaptability. The Great Horned Owl has a varied diet and preys on an extensive range of animals, including small mammals such as rodents, various species of birds, and even larger prey like skunks.
Mountain Birds of Tennessee
Tennessee is home to some large mountain ranges, which provide a diverse habitat for various bird species. Among these, four notable mountain bird species can be found, each thriving in their respective ranges:
Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus)
The Black-capped Chickadee is commonly found in the Great Smoky Mountains. This small, energetic bird is easily recognizable by its distinctive black cap and bib, along with its white cheeks. They are known for their curious nature and can often be seen flitting about in the underbrush, foraging for insects and seeds.
Barred Owl (Strix varia)
In the Appalachian Mountains, the Barred Owl reigns as one of the most prominent raptors. With its striking reddish-brown tail and powerful build, this bird of prey is often seen soaring high above the ridges, scanning the ground for small mammals. Their keen eyesight and impressive hunting skills make them a fascinating species to observe.
Golden-crowned Kinglet (Regulus satrapa)
The Golden-crowned Kinglet can be spotted in the Cumberland Mountains, where it flits through the coniferous forests. This tiny bird, with its olive-green plumage and a striking yellow crown, is known for its acrobatic movements as it searches for insects among the branches. Their high-pitched calls can often be heard echoing through the trees.
Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura)
The Mourning Dove is prevalent in the lower elevations of the Smoky Mountains. Recognizable by their soft cooing calls and slender bodies, these doves are often seen perched on telephone wires or foraging on the ground for seeds. Their graceful flight and gentle demeanor make them a beloved sight in the mountainous regions of Tennessee.
Rare and Endangered Birds in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to several rare and endangered bird species. These birds face various threats, including habitat loss and environmental changes. Here are some of the notable ones:
Bachman’s Sparrow (Peucaea aestivalis)
Bachman’s Sparrow is a small, elusive bird species that primarily inhabits open pine forests, where it finds the necessary resources for feeding and nesting. Unfortunately, habitat destruction caused by human activities and environmental changes has significantly reduced its population numbers, leading to concerns about its long-term survival. In response to this decline, various conservation efforts are currently underway, aimed at protecting and restoring its natural habitat to ensure that this unique bird can thrive in the wild once again.
IUCN Status: Near Threatened
Red-cockaded Woodpecker (Picoides borealis)
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker is particularly recognized for its distinctive nesting behaviors, which involve the intricate process of excavating cavities in live pine trees. This bird species is currently classified as endangered, primarily as a result of the significant loss of mature pine forests that provide essential habitat. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting this species encompass a variety of strategies, including habitat management practices and the implementation of controlled burns, both of which are crucial for sustaining the health and vitality of the pine ecosystem.
IUCN Status: Near Threatened
Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea)
The Cerulean Warbler is a small yet captivating songbird, distinguished by its striking blue plumage that catches the eye. This species typically breeds in mature deciduous forests, where it finds the ideal habitat for nesting and raising its young. As the seasons change, it undertakes a remarkable migration journey to South America for the winter months, seeking warmer climates. Unfortunately, the ongoing issue of deforestation in both its breeding habitats and wintering grounds has significantly contributed to a concerning decline in its overall population.
IUCN Status: Near Threatened
Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis)
The Ivory-billed Woodpecker is widely regarded as one of the most elusive and mysterious birds in all of North America. Once believed to be extinct due to habitat loss and other factors, there have been several unconfirmed sightings reported in recent years that have sparked renewed interest and hope among ornithologists and birdwatchers alike. The continued survival of this remarkable bird species is intricately linked to the preservation and protection of large, ancient old-growth forests, which provide the necessary habitat and resources for their existence.
IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
Birdwatching Hotspots in Tennessee
Tennessee is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a variety of locations where enthusiasts can observe a wide range of bird species. Here are some of the top birdwatching hotspots in the state:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a premier destination for birdwatching. The park is home to over 240 species of birds, making it a must-visit for any bird enthusiast. Birdwatchers can enjoy a diverse range of habitats, from lowland forests to high-elevation spruce-fir forests.
Reelfoot Lake
Reelfoot Lake is another excellent spot for birdwatching. This natural lake, formed by a series of earthquakes in the early 19th century, is a haven for waterfowl and wading birds. Visitors can expect to see species such as bald eagles, great blue herons, and various types of ducks.
Radnor Lake State Park
Located near Nashville, Radnor Lake State Park offers a peaceful setting for birdwatching. The park is known for its abundance of waterfowl and migratory birds. Birdwatchers can explore several trails that provide excellent vantage points for observing birds in their natural habitat.
Seven Islands State Birding Park
Seven Islands State Birding Park, located in Knox County, is a dedicated birding park that offers a variety of habitats for birdwatching. The park is home to over 190 species of birds, making it a popular destination for bird enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park’s trails and enjoy the diverse birdlife that calls this area home.
Bird Conservation Efforts in Tennessee
Tennessee Ornithological Society
The Tennessee Ornithological Society (TOS) plays a key role in bird conservation across the state. They organize bird counts, monitor bird populations, and support various research projects. TOS also participates in the Urban Bird Treaty, which helps protect birds in urban areas.
Habitat Restoration Projects
Habitat restoration is crucial for maintaining bird populations. Projects often focus on restoring wetlands, forests, and grasslands. These efforts help provide safe nesting and feeding areas for birds. Volunteers and local communities frequently participate in these projects.
Bird Banding Programs
Bird banding programs are essential for tracking bird migration and behavior. Scientists place small bands on birds’ legs to collect data on their movements. This information helps in understanding migration patterns and the health of bird populations.
Public Education and Outreach
Public education and outreach are vital for raising awareness about bird conservation. Programs include school visits, workshops, and community events. These initiatives aim to educate people about the importance of birds and how they can help in conservation efforts.
Conservation work in Tennessee is a community effort, involving scientists, volunteers, and local residents working together to protect bird species.
Conclusion
Tennessee is a wonderful place for bird lovers. With 423 species, there’s always something new to see. From the fast Peregrine Falcon to the tiny Calliope Hummingbird, the state is full of amazing birds. Whether you’re in the Great Smoky Mountains or near Reelfoot Lake, you can enjoy birdwatching all year round. So grab your binoculars and explore the diverse birdlife that Tennessee has to offer!
